Top things to do in Bologna

Best places to visit in Bologna

From one of our hotels in Bologna, the NH Bologna de la Gare hotel, we’re going to head south down Via Galliera which will take you past a variety of shops, café’s and other establishments, all giving you a flavor of the style of this remarkable city. If you didn’t manage to pick up a coffee before you left then you’ll find a few open doors welcoming you in. 

As you get to the end of the street you’ll spot a few buildings of note, namely the Palazzo Felicini, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, Casa delle Tuate, and Palazzo Gaundenzi Già dal Monte. Pop in to find out more. 

As you turn right onto Via Manzoni you’ll immediately identify the Museo Civico Medievale, the ideal place to learn all about the city’s fascinating, yet turbulent past. Armor and various artifacts, formidable bronze statues, embroidery and manuscripts, ivory and glasswork. The items date back as far as the 7th century. 

Another thing to do in Bologna is to stop and contemplate the statue of Boniface VII, sculpted in 130, and take a guided tour of the museum. Continue on and then right along Via dell’Indipendenza, a street packed with mainstream shopping brands, which leads you perfectly into Bologna’s main square, Piazza Maggiore. 

Stood proud within this grand space is Neptune. His trident has become a symbol of Bologna but also of the famous car brand Maserati. 

One of the highlights within this magnificent square is San Petronio’s Cathedral, which will no doubt catch your eye before you realize what it is. Without a doubt, a must in this guide on what to do in Bologna. It was originally designed to be the largest church in the world back in the 14th century, the project was never completed, but what was created includes a stunning façade of marble and brick. 

There are three naves inside the gothic structure and the more than 20 chapels contain numerous works of art from the Middle Ages and Renaissance period. Among everything else, try to check out the incredible sundial and the spectacular view from the roof-top terrace.

Just off to the east lies Via Drapperrie in the district of Quadrilatero. If you didn’t grab a refreshment in or around the piazza itself, you’ll be spoilt for choice in these streets. Make your way up to Via San Vitale and enjoy the atmosphere on route to the Two Towers, which will include various market stalls. 

The towers themselves are just two of around 20 survivors of the 100-plus that used to stand around the city. Visiting Torre Garisenda and Torre Asinelli, to give them their names, are two of the most important things to do in Bologna. It’s believed to be the tallest leaning tower in the world and offers lovely views to clear the head. 

If you enjoyed those structures, we have another towering treat for you as we journey in a north-westerly direction back towards the hotel. Torre Prendiparte is the second highest in the city and was constructed in the 12th century, with all floors now accessible. If the legs are up to it, check out the vistas from its summit.

See more of Bologna

You may not be in Venice, but one thing you’ll notice about Bologna is that it contains a wonderful series of hidden canals, some that are truly hidden from public view. Ask at the hotel for a map of the ones that can be seen and be sure to check them out, they do date back to the Middle Ages after all. If you want to discover more about what to do in Bologna, here are a few more ideas to take advantage of. 

MAMbo (Museo d'Arte Moderna di Bologna) 

Is one of the city’s newer museums (its doors were opened to the public in 2007), Italian artists take center stage in both the permanent and temporary exhibitions. There are nine thematic areas within the collection as you trace the history of the country’s works since World War II. In addition, it is a very quiet space, perfect for a walk. 

Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca 

Visiting it is one of the most special things to do in Bologna, as it is a beloved symbol of the city. This sanctuary looks over the city from atop Colle della Guardia, and is well worth a trip to see. Rising from the greenery surrounding it, the red stone and green dome are visible as you climb upwards (or save the legs and jump aboard the San Luca Express train). 

Check out the gardens, the monastery and, of course, the view back over Bologna. And since you’re there, treat yourself to the stunning panoramic from the basilica terrace by venturing up the narrow spiral staircase.

Bologna’s dining experience

As you may have heard, the region of Emilia-Romagna is affectionately known as Italy’s food valley, a place that consistently provides a high standard of produce from the land. World famous products such as Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto from Parma, and Modena balsamic vinegar are just a flavor of those that come from these parts, and the fresh ingredients help chefs around the city of Bologna to surprise and delight their customers. Let’s have a look at a few potential options for you during your stay.

Best breakfast in town

If somehow the aromas coming from our hotel breakfast area didn’t pull you in, you are never short of choices out on the streets as the day begins. You’re in Italy so sipping on an espresso is pretty much standard, and there are so many enticing alternatives. A particularly delightful stop is the Sartoria Bakery Café on Piazza Aldrovandi. If the weather permits, take your caffeine selection outside and savor the experience. 

Bologna-style food 

Among the things to do in Bologna, you have to go for lunch in Oltre: a restaurant that will have you returning to the city sooner than you had originally planned. Here you’ll be spoilt for choice as you gaze down at the menu where chef Daniele Bendanti takes tradition and blends it with his own stunning creativity. It’s worth noting that as you arrive at the restaurant you may think you’re at the wrong venue. Don’t let the sticker-covered door put you off what lies within. 

Best dinner restaurants 

The tradition of aperitivo is alive and well in Bologna so make sure that you act like one of the locals and partake in one of the many delicacies along with a small drink of your choice before your evening meal. The aforementioned neighborhood of Quadrilatero is ideal for this and after your stomach and taste buds have been aroused, complete the occasion with the city’s signature dish, tagliatelle al ragù in Trattoria Anna Maria, on Via delle Belle Arti. 

Arguably the most well-known restaurant in Modena is Osteria Francescana, we recommend getting your reservation early to this three-Michelin-star foodie indulgence. You are far from limited in this area, however, with an abundance of top-notch eateries within the city, including All’Osteria Bottega. The Slow Food delicacies offered by the team here and the attention to detail in every aspect of the establishment will impress you.

Enjoy Bologna’s nightlife

A cool, rustic vibe awaits you at the end of the day. Grab a stool or stand and soak up the positive tunes that keep the bar going into the night. It’ll be full of locals all out to have a good time and they’ll be happy to share that with you. 

Ending with this guide on things to do in Bologna, we recommend several places to enjoy the night. Food and live music are waiting for you in Bar Wolf, and it’s a place that won’t hit you too much in the pocket either. A brilliantly eclectic mix of sounds will likely have everyone. 

If something a little classier is desired then Cantina Bentivoglio should be your destination. A cross between a restaurant and a wine bar, you can choose to enjoy one of the many local wines while your host ensures the air is filled with the assorted sounds of live jazz music. During the warmer months this experience moves outdoors. 

No matter what brought you to Bologna, you are going to be glad it did. A wealth of history and some beautiful scenery will stay with you long after you leave, and the gastronomy will have you talking all the way back home. Our team at NH Bologna de la Gare and at NH Bologna Villanova is waiting to offer you more advice on how to make the most of any spare time you are afforded. We will not be surprised if you ask for an extra night’s stay.